With an unusual and unexpected opening, at first you could be forgiven for assuming Gedge and the band have wandered off into a new post-rock phase. But enjoyable as this surprise is, when the first chords of 'Two Bridges' kick in you could be listening to George Best or Bizarro; this also goes for for 'Birdsnest' and the blistering and funny 'Secretary'. Unlike some bands that sound contrived when echoing their earlier selves, this just sounds natural and brilliant and fresh. Maybe it's Gedge's voice - it sounds like he still loves his craft and his job and being in this band. 'Rachel' might be one of the best pop songs the band have ever written.On 'Bear' 'Broken Bow' and 'Lead' strains of the Albini infused Seamonsters creep in too; showcasing their slower, more menacing side but still uniquely them. The final track 'Santa Monica' may be one of the best final tracks of any album; building a simple arpeggio and lovely bass line into a trademark Wedding Present loud section as good as anything they have ever released and I can't wait to see it live. Lyrically it's simply beautiful, and the same heartfelt phrases that resonated with me when I was 20 still do so now I'm nearing 50; maybe even more so given the twist to Gedge's usual pathos. Vocally it gives a clear nod to 'Suck' from Seamonsters, and I can't help wondering if it's supposed to be a follow on to that track.It's also worth buying the release with the DVD - 20 hypnotic pieces of film that complement the music well, and make for a mesmerising watch. The more experimental tracks in particular really shine with the visual accompaniment.

Really impressed with this power supply. Incredible for the price; eradicated all the noise I was getting from my old daisy chain set up. Also, it came with an adapter that fits an old DOD pedal I had, so I've added an extra pedal to my board. You can also turn the lights off if you don't like all the blue leds, though personally I quite like them.

With the surprise release of the Deep Wound single in Dec '13 it was clear that Swervedriver still had that early 90's vibe nailed, and this album continues that magical return to a time when guitars shimmered and roared, feedback and wahwah swooped and sored, and we all had hair. It's amazing that this is the first album released since '98 and it really is as good as anything from the Raise & Mezcal Head period, and stands strong in it's on right. Whereas some of the later material started to explore more straightforward structures and styles, I Wasn't Born To Lose you mines that reach seam of heavy shoegazey guitar magic that made them such an important band last time around.With Ride touring and Swervedriver relaeasing new material and touring also, it's a great time to be an old indie kid.